Beenznrice Art

New Stuff at the Shop and FREE SHIPPING!

2011-06-07T11:03:00.000-07:00

Free shipping all summer with coupon code: freesummer

Check out what's up for sale here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/beenznrice

Wordpress Blog

2011-06-01T08:10:00.001-07:00

Just to let all my followers know, I am slowly transitioning our blog to: http://beenznriceart.wordpress.com/

I will still keep this one open, but come and join us at our wordpress site! That's where you'll find the most current Beenznrice news and artwork. <3 Naomi

Fernando Vicente Vanitas

2011-02-04T07:52:00.000-08:00

Wow. These are amazing. Hauntingly, creepily gorgeous pieces.

Amazing Fairy Doors of Ann Arbor

2011-01-27T20:25:00.001-08:00

Does anyone know the story behind these doors? There's a whole Flickr set. Check it out!

More Vintage Typography

2011-01-27T08:27:00.000-08:00

These were my favorites from this set.

Vintage Typography

2011-01-26T18:08:00.000-08:00

I googled "Vintage Typography" and these came up. Loverly.

Early Morning Inspiration

2011-01-26T08:11:00.000-08:00

Saw this on a facebook friend's wall, watched it and stole it. This is truly beautiful and it's exactly what I needed to see today. Mark Ryden is an amazing artist with a unique point of view. To see him work like this is awe inspiring. The inspiration keeps on coming.

Found an Inspiration 2009 Post...

2011-01-25T09:16:00.001-08:00

From my Heavenly Skull blog. It's been a while since I've been to the Ranch House, but I think once Spring comes, I need to take a bike ride out there:

For lunches during springtime, I love walking over to the Adolfo Camarillo Ranch House. The flowers are in full bloom. Here are some photos I took on my walk:

A little pathway behind the house...

That leads to a beautiful and very peaceful shrine of the Guadalupe.

Hope you get a chance to go outside today!

Thought for the day...

2011-01-25T08:11:00.001-08:00

This is some true wisdom to incorporate into everyday. It's especially important because the way we in this country are brought up to run the rat race is really unhealthy if we don't stop and realize what we are doing. Here's the original page this was taken from. It's a great site shown to me by a fellow artist: http://zenhabits.net/be-still/

From the Tao Te Ching:

It is not wise to dash about.
Shortening the breath causes much stress.
Use too much energy, and
You will soon be exhausted.
That is not the Natural Way.
Whatever works against this Way
Will not last long.

Illustration Friday: Dusty

2011-01-24T08:32:00.000-08:00

I was cleaning our computer desk because it was ridiculous. There were lots of old bills and dust. And then there was this:

A little sketch that Carlos did. I don't know what the backstory is on this guy, but I liked it and I posted it!

More Monday inspiration found while cleaning was this photocopy of a picture of my Mom in her twenties. I love this photo of her. I've always wanted to do a painting based on this photo:

And this wasn't in the pile, but I was drinking this while cleaning. It's really good! And I LOVE the label. I'd love to do a werewolf piece in this style:

Monday Morning Inspiration

2011-01-24T08:19:00.000-08:00

So all weekend I've been obsessed by Audrey Kawasaki's other blog baibai_matane.
It looks like a mood board for her work. She posts all kinds of random things that inspire her. I really want to start doing that more for my own work. A resolution I have not yet taken up this year is to be diligent about creating work for myself along with the bread and butter jobs.

First thing this morning, I had an urge to hear harp music. Not sure why, I just wanted to hear something ethereal and not the usual. Here is what I got:

Listening to Music...

2011-01-09T15:42:00.000-08:00

With the news of the shooting in AZ and the death of a child, then reading an article about a religious group touting it as an act of God, I needed to pray and listen to songs that instill and reaffirm my hope in humanity. Here are a few of them. These are just what I have been listening to, no message here from me. I hope you all have a good and peaceful day today.

Beenznrice work from The Sharpie Show II

2010-12-15T13:59:00.000-08:00

Our pieces from The Sharpie Show! More photos to come!

Pictures are from Crewest Gallery's Flickr set here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/crewestman/sets/72157625251490030/

The Sharpie Show II TOMORROW!

2010-12-03T23:29:00.000-08:00

Our stuff and us will be at this show tomorrow. Starts at 6PM See you there. Click on the flyer for more info!

Illustration Friday Topic: Savor

2010-11-27T15:29:00.001-08:00

I changed this up a little bit since I last posted it on here: my illustration of The Little Mermaid. Thinking about the original Hans Christian Anderson story, it makes me think about being happy with who you are and not changing that for another person to want you. You have to "savor" who you are.

Added bonus, this and other prints will be available at 20% off on Cyber Monday. Promo code: CMBR2010 at http://www.etsy.com/shop/beenznrice

Sock puppets or paper airplanes?

2010-11-20T19:39:00.001-08:00

paper airplanes! cuz they fly silly!

Ask me anything

Favorite Mexican dish? :3

2010-11-20T17:41:00.001-08:00

i have 2!!! Chile Rellenos (the way my mom in law makes) and mole and eggs and rice with lots of onion and lemon juice. omg

Ask me anything

Life Drawing Session 11.11.2010

2010-11-13T09:24:00.000-08:00

Enjoy!

Progress on my Little Mermaid Shrine.

2010-11-07T10:14:00.000-08:00

I'm not done yet, I have big plans for her, but with this head start (I used the extra hour today to work on this instead of sleep), I should be done in no time. I am really loving the way the glass and seashells mix.

Here is what I had on loop while working frantically this morning, a great band that's the side project of Rostam Batmanglij the keyboardist from Vampire Weekend and Wes Miles the vocalist from Ra Ra Riot. Enjoy!

btw, it's not the official video, but it makes me quite happy:

Camarillo Figure Artists Meetup 11.04.2010

2010-11-06T14:06:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to go for a while, but we finally made it this past week. It was great. The model was lovely and the drawing group was great and quite diverse. We will be going again this week. It's located at Blue Sky Art which used to be Los Primeros Elementary on Ventura Blvd. If you're in the 805 area and are interested, here's the link for the meetup: http://www.meetup.com/Camarillo-Figure-Artists/

The first three red ones are Carlos's and the rest are mine (Naomi). Have a great weekend!

Halloween Pumpkin Painting, Night 1

2010-10-30T16:32:00.000-07:00

CJ's pumpkin...

My Dia de los Muertos Skull Pumpkin...

CJ painting...

Alyssa and Carlos's turn tonight!

Illustration Friday Topic: Spent

2010-10-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

My shrine based on gambling and religion and their connection. That's all I'll say about that.

Illustration Friday Topic: Racing

2010-10-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

Here is a vector illustration I did for a T-shirt. I think I may get more T-shirts printed with this design...

Illustration Friday Topic: Racing

2010-10-22T09:54:00.001-07:00

Another oldie for today's topic. This is from Carlos and was one of his first Photoshop projects. Not bad for a first Photoshop effort eh?

Papel Geekado Wall Skins!

2010-10-21T16:57:00.000-07:00

I created these 5 designs after being inspired by traditional Mexican Papel Picados. Papel Picados are created to celebrate different occasions, especially Dia de los Muertos, or The Day of the Dead. Mixed with modern day concepts, they create a new geek chic aesthetic for any room! For more info go to the Pi Design website here: http://www.pistudioprint.com/products-page/designer-geek-prints/

Little Red Riding Hood by Annie Rodrigue

2010-10-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

"Little Red Riding Hood" by Annie Rodrigue

I am starting on three pieces to show at Rare Blends at the Camarillo Library. The pieces are going to be of Little Red Riding Hood, The Little Mermaid, and Hansel and Gretel. I googled Little Red Riding Hood for some morning inspiration with my coffee, and this piece stood out right away. On to search for more inspiration. I will show some progress as it comes. I do not want to rush these. I've been wanting to do pieces using children's classic fairy tales as the theme, and I want to make sure I do a great job with these.

Enjoy!
Naomi

Illustration Friday Topic: Spooky

2010-10-18T23:24:00.000-07:00

Here's an old piece from Carlos. This was part of his Senior Thesis at Otis College of Art and Design. It's an illustration of the trenches from WWI. Spooky indeed.

Studio 6 Grand Opening Show

2010-10-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

The Grand Opening show went great at Studio 6! Most of the work is still up. If you are interested, it is in Downtown Ventura on Main St. in Zander Mall. Above is one of my shrines.

Above is work by Roberto Zendejas. He was such a nice person and extremely positive and inspirational. Hope to see what he does next! More of my work below...

Above and below were other artists' work...

Yes those are Pacman necklaces! Those were probably CJ's favorite. He started building them with his legos when he got home.

My faithful "Blue Lady" painting...

Blasts from the Past!

2010-10-11T09:57:00.001-07:00

This Dia De Los Muertos Painting is up at Studio 6 Gallery in Ventura, CA.

My La Llorona Doll was on exhibit in New York for Mezco Toys' Living Dead Doll exhibit featuring many artists.

Portrait of a very talented jewelry designer Lorrie Mae of Dying Breed Designs.

Storybook illustration inspired by real life events.

Carlos's artwork of a robot monster.

Carlos's famed Hell Fish!

My Geisha Muertas. Three of these were featured on MTV's The Real World Hollywood, in the Asian inspired room.

My artwork is currently on display at Studio 6 in Ventura, CA. Grand Opening is this Saturday Oct 16!

If you were given a chance to go on a vacation just you and Carlos and money was not an option, where would you go and what would you do?

2010-10-09T20:10:00.001-07:00

have Greek food in Greece and just hang out on the beaches all freaking day.

Ask me anything

Run 6 miles on flat terrain or hike 5 miles uphill on a trail called "The Beast?"

2010-10-09T20:08:00.001-07:00

i'd rather hike than run any day. then again, can i take a look at what the Beast looks like?

Ask me anything

My First Vector Papel Picado Design!

2010-10-09T19:14:00.000-07:00

Created fully in Illustrator. I'm probably going to make a million of these now! I really LOVE the way this turned out! Love the fact that I can have this design in any color I want. What do you think?

My Inspiration Candle Made it on a Treasury!

2010-10-09T13:33:00.000-07:00

The Beatles have always been on of my most favorite bands. My John Lennon Inspiration Prayer Candle chosen to be in a Beatles Treasury is a total honor. Check out all the other great items and etsy sellers in this list!

Finished some Dia de los Muertos vectors!

2010-10-04T19:42:00.000-07:00

Cameo Vector

2010-10-04T11:31:00.001-07:00

Here are some cameos I've been working on. Now on to a sacred heart!

Working with T-shirt Design Elements

2010-10-02T17:11:00.001-07:00

After experimenting with Vector Elements to create some T-shirt designs, I really wanted to start creating my own vector elements to use when I need to. The sketches above are what I'll be working with tonight. Below are my experiments with existing vector elements. I'll post my progress later tonight...

Belectables Tasting Event

2010-09-29T17:57:00.000-07:00

This is a wonderful client of mine and I got the fun task of designing her logo for her company "Belectables." You can see the logo around the cupcakes. These look so tasty!

Carlos's Saturday Art Nite Sketches

2010-09-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

Here are Carlos's sketches. We did the same scenes. It's kind of interesting to look at each others' work and see the differences next to each other. Enjoy!

Saturday Art Night Studies

2010-09-27T20:02:00.001-07:00

So Saturday, we decided to have an art night. We did some exercises that we used to do while we were in school. The movie we drew from was "Kick-Ass" which is totally, well, kick ass! It was myself, Carlos and Travis. The first time I'd used Prisma Color markers in probably years. Here are my studies from art night. I'll post Carlos's tomorrow. Enjoy!

Shout Out to the Crafty Chica

2010-09-24T09:09:00.001-07:00

So this is the first thing I saw on Facebook this morning. I think this is absolutely beautiful! This is the work of Kathy Cano-Murillo, aka the Crafty Chica! Can't wait to see the whole thing! Here's the link to her sneak peak: http://thecraftychica.blogspot.com/2010/09/sneak-peek-of-my-ceramic-project.html

Ipromptu Trip to Burger King

2010-09-22T16:03:00.001-07:00

So yesterday, I felt like taking CJ to Burger King. It was too cold to take him to the park, which we usually do since he and his sister have an hour apart between pick up from school times. So we went. I needed a coffee and I see that they now serve Seattle's Best. I'm not crazy about their new logo, but I did enjoy the artwork on the coffee cups! It made my coffee experience that much better.

Alyssa's 13th Birthday Cake

2010-09-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share the cake my son and I made for my daughter today. She turned the big 1-3. Yep, I can't believe it either. This year so far has been full of ups and downs and lots of discovery and maturing for her. I'm so proud of her, and can't wait to see how she does as a full fledged teenager. :D

Starting on 2 new illustrations...

2010-09-17T12:04:00.000-07:00

I saw something this morning after dropping Carlos off to work-pulled up to my driveway to see a BUNCH of crows, along my driveway, in my patio, on my wall. I looked around and there were no other crows anywhere in the neighborhood. Being slightly superstitious, it was an ominous sight. Did not like it. Hopefully there was a mouse or something that was in my yard they were after.

Anyhow, that experience inspired me to do an illustration. I haven't been working on full illustrations and I need to discover my illustration style and feel comfortable in it. I haven't finished a full illustration in Illustrator they way I'd love to be able to, so I am working on that now. Just wanted to share...will post more progress later.

This lemon girl illustration I think I will do in Photoshop...but I may change my mind and try to finish that in Illustrator as well. More later...

Scanner is Hooked Up!

2010-09-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

Carlos got the scanner hooked up for me late last night, so there will much catching up to do as far as scanning in my drawings. There will also be more drawings from me, now knowing that my scanner works and is usable! Here is the first for today. Some sketches of my kids. Alyssa is great at holding still for sketches, she always has been since she was little. CJ on the other hand, he gets a little self conscious, and he's a full blooded boy, which means he has a constant case of the wiggles, and just can't sit still for more than half a minute. Enjoy!

20% Off Everything at the Beenznrice Shop until the end of September!

2010-09-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

That's right! This also includes custom portrait illustrations and Geisha Muerta prints. Shop around now: http://www.etsy.com/shop/beenznrice

Got my postcards in the mail!

2010-09-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

Am making a list of people to send them to! Let me know if you want one!

Illustration Friday Topic: Dessert

2010-09-03T09:20:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite subjects! And I had just finished this little illustration of a rebel cupcake. Enjoy!

A Perfect Day in the 805 Today

2010-09-02T19:30:00.000-07:00

This was the view from the parking lot at the Camarillo Library. Gorgeous, right? I was filled with the beauty of today, and was ready to work at the library on some article writing. Little did I know I was going to sit next to a pervert upstairs looking up porn and messaging way younger girls. Ugh. And there were kids upstairs and could have easily been exposed to these pornographic images. I was disgusted and had to leave.

Aside from that, had a lovely day. lolz I will have an art post tomorrow. I hope to go to First Fridays in Ventura and take pics of art, but we'll see.

CLS Photography Holiday Special

2010-09-01T18:56:00.000-07:00

Today was the kids' first day of school and I am zonked. So, I'm putting a little shout out for my talented photographer friend, Christine Lee Smith. I've known her since the 7th grade and she has always been a wonderful person. She took the photos of a few of my paintings and did a great job. I especially love the photo of the papel picado above! But her specialty is wedding photos and capturing the happiness of people. She is running a special for holiday photography and it's a darn good one! Here's the link to her blog: http://blog.clsphotography.com/ And the special is below:

"It's getting to be that time of year already, when the thought of Christmas cards sneak into your mind when you're not paying attention. Well, never fear! We've got you covered. This month we're offering a special price on our mini-portrait sessions, perfect for capturing you or your family for the annual Christmas letter or card."

Our mini-portrait sessions are a great way to make your annual Christmas letter or holiday card a beautiful guaranteed hit, sure to stay on everyone's refrigerator for a long time!

We're offering sessions Saturday, September 18 from 4pm-7pm in Long Beach. Contact us today for more details, and to reserve your session time.

Sessions are $95 and include high-resolution files and an online proofing gallery, so you can make your own prints, or purchase professional prints from us.

Pass it on: http://mim.io/90285

New Postcards coming in a few days!

2010-08-31T15:45:00.001-07:00

Contact me with your mailing address if you'd like a postcard sent to you!

Naomi

Just finished another shrine!

2010-08-29T16:37:00.001-07:00

I really didn't think when making this, I let my subconscious grab whatever materials I had. So I think it's interesting that I have a play of gambling, luck and religious symbolism...hmmm...I'll leave that to interpretation. What do you think?

Finished My Blue Shrine!

2010-08-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

I think I'm going to call it Seahorse Theater. I was stuck on what to do with it for a while, but Carlos helped me out of that rut. I am really happy with it! All I have left to do is to add the hanger on the back and it will be on its way to Studio 6 on Main St. in Ventura, CA. I also have another shrine drying outside and will post pics later.

Started painting some more on this piece...

2010-08-27T21:41:00.000-07:00

More progress to come in the next few days...

Back to School Supply Shopping!

2010-08-26T12:48:00.001-07:00

I meant to write a post about this Monday, but forgot about it until now! So, guess how much I spent on school supplies for the kids this week? I spent $55 total. Not per kid, total. And this is for an 8th grader and a 1st grader. I know, amazing, right? How did I do it? I'll tell you.

1. Got my Sunday paper and compared their school supply list with what was on sale at each place. I chose to go to Staples because they had more of their necessities for cheaper.

2. I went through their individual lists with each of them to see what they already had. They had a few things left from last year that were still perfectly fine. Crossed out things to buy right then and there without having to leave the house (or even change out of my PJ's!).

3. Got post-its and Kleenex at the 99 cents store. Those are usually more at any store even during Back to School Sales. Most other things are cheaper at the sales.

4. Went to Staples and stuck to my list for each of them. No extras, nothing fancy or special. They know we're on a budget, and kids generally do not value their school supplies once they're actually in the thick of school. Things get thrashed. I got good quality supplies without buying anything where the extra flash means extra bucks.

5. I did NOT buy vinyl book covers! Those are expensive, ugly, and actually ruin textbooks! I help them make their own with paper bags we get from Ralph's or Trader Joe's. It's better for the environment AND they can draw and design on them and make them their own. Those look much better than camouflage or pink polka dots on their books.

And that's it! I did good this year! I hope you all are surviving Back to School! I can't wait. More art to be made while the kids are getting educated next week!

Lost Chankla!

2010-08-26T10:04:00.000-07:00

So yesterday my poor son went to the beach with his uncle and grandma, and when they got back, I noticed his face looked like he'd been crying. so out of instinct, I look him up and down to see what's the matter and when I look down, I notice one of his flip flops is missing. They were his favorite ones. He literally cried all evening until he fell asleep. This from a kid who's fallen directly on his head on tile floor at 2 yrs old and barely cried.

Poor thing kept coming up with things to get his missing slipper back, like getting a submarine and looking for it. or he asked my why couldn't God suck up the water so we can go find it. Then said he hoped that a shark didn't eat it or bite it. He said tearfully, "I should've listened to you." I said, "What do you mean?" He replied, "You always told me not to go in the water with my chanclas."

Above are the style of chanclas that he lost. Yep, they're Havaianas, bought from Ross Dress for Less months ago. They are the Brasil style, but the size is a US 1-2. If any of you know where I can get that specific size, please let me know. I've seen it for sale in women and men's sizes but not in kids' sizes. He's feeling a little better today, but he still woke up after crying himself to sleep, asking if the ocean had spit up his missing chancla. :(

Working on a Children's Book today...

2010-08-25T14:13:00.000-07:00

So I can't show it, but I'm working on laying out a children's book that I illustrated years ago. Usually I don't like looking at old work, it makes me feel weird, I guess it's similar to the way some singers can't listen to their own music. But, now laying out my old illustrations, they still hold up and are actually quite adorable! I am happy to see that. It was a great start to my day.

I've changed the header to our blog. What do you think of it? I'm also going to stop starting the names of my posts with "A Piece of My Mind..." because I have been very good about blogging every day since I've been laid off. Also, it will make it easy for any of you to search through archive blogs. Just letting you know...

Working on another shrine. Will post pics later.

Carlos has a new blog!

2010-08-24T09:59:00.001-07:00

It's called a Face Per Day inspired by Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! Go to the blog here at: http://faceperday.blogspot.com/

Here's the opening to Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! If you've never seen it...

A week HIATUS!!! A Piece of My Mind Today...08.23.10

2010-08-23T08:37:00.001-07:00

Last week I felt like I had no energy. I think from being drained from the week before. Personal problems have been lifted! Our family is super strong and closer than ever and will stand against anything and anyone who tries to break us apart. That's all I'll have to say about what we've been dealing with, but I have to say it feels really great!

Okay, I've got some projects started. Working on more shrines for Studio 6 as I've had a few sales already! Here's one that is almost finished:

Here are some paintings I had started way back when, and I couldn't look at them for a while because I was completely uninspired. After uncovering them recently while unpacking more boxes, I took a good look at these and felt like they weren't bad, not bad at all! They both have some potential. So new projects for me to finish!

I also got around to putting up my Geisha Muerta pieces. Yep, these are the same ones that were in the Real World Hollywood House...and my son watching Invader Zim as he's waiting for breakfast. :)

Another thing I did last week was take my daughter clothes shopping for back to school. We went to Buffalo Exchange in Ventura and she got all the trendy things she wanted and I got to trade in some of the stuff I wasn't using. Ended up paying about $50 for $100+ worth of stuff! Great Job! (yes Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! is now in my subconscious so I can't help but say Great Job! for everything these days lol) We even got done in record time, so we took a walk down to the Buenaventura Mission and took a tour.

What a gorgeous and peaceful place! My daughter and I both feel, see and hear things that we can't explain at times, and both of us felt very much at peace, but also felt extremely lightheaded and dizzy. The two places we felt the most dizzy was at the picture above, at the Virgin Mary shrine, and also toward the back where the tomb was. Quite an experience.

More to come including a new blog featuring Carlos and his many faces!

A Piece of My Mind 08.13.2010 Linocut Fail!

2010-08-13T18:23:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's a linocut fail, but it feels so good! I actually really like something about it, even though it's not something I'd call a success. Some of it I think is that I used regular acrylic and not screenprinting ink. But I feel like I've learned something intuitive about this process. Now I am really inspired to start a new one, with what I've learned from this one. I think I'll still frame the muted pink background one. Usually I beat myself for Fails, but this is the first one I've felt great about!

Makes me think of this scene from "Meet The Robinsons" a highly underrated movie in my opinion!

A Piece of My Mind 08.11.2010: Craziness!

2010-08-11T23:18:00.000-07:00

Crazy day tomorrow gotta get to sleep. Will draw at the Ventura County Courthouse tomorrow and hopefully get the scanner plugged in to scan my work when I get back. I'm sure there will be plenty of people sitting around just waiting to be sketched. :)

Pinkies Up!

2010-08-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

I felt like being lavish this week. So I took the fam to an impromptu trip to the Greek at the Harbor on Monday, along with other lavish acts this week including going out for dessert last night! Tonight me and my daughter are going to the gym for some cardio and then going to take advantage of their infrared sauna to improve our skin. Super lavishness. :D

A Piece of My Mind 08.10.2010: Well...it's a...swan

2010-08-10T19:25:00.000-07:00

I finally started a painting today. My sketch is up top. A preview of part of the painting is on the bottom. More progress to show later. Got a big day on Thursday, but my creativity is flowing like crazy!

A Piece of My Mind 08.09.2010: My work at Studio 6!

2010-08-09T23:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics from today...

Me and CJ in the long hallway to Studio 6...
Then Alyssa and I...

And both the kids in front of the HUGE suit of arms!

My "Blue Lady" in Studio 6...

My Bio (like the glitter and skulls?) Card

"Tres Corazones" up at Studio 6.

Handmade magnets

And my shrines! The one at the end is already sold!
My big "Calavera Rosa Sirena" shrine next to my magnets...

If you are able to make it out, let me know what you think!

Studio 6 Open today!

2010-08-09T10:07:00.001-07:00

My artwork will be up and for sale at Studio 6 on Main Street in Ventura, CA. If you are in the area, stop by and show your support! There are going to be other great artists and crafters shown at this gallery, all with very different styles than what is normall seen in the 805. I will be stopping by in the later afternoon!

Will post pics from the gallery later today.

A Piece of My Mind 08.08.2010: My perfect Sunday...yes I'm thinking of Hot Fuzz

2010-08-08T23:36:00.000-07:00

Today was probably the best Sunday I've had in a long time. It felt like Carlos and I were on a vacation or something. Grandparents had the kids all day. We took as much time to do whatever we wanted today. We spent 3+ hours at Money Pancho's eating their bomb ass brunch and drinking champagne with cranberry juice, which they are very generous with. After that, hit the backyard with a blanket and pretended we were at the beach. We tanned for over an hour back there, while listening to the retro Disco station on DirecTV. The rest of the day just kept getting better. I even had a 3 hour nap. We've got a busy and important week coming up and I'm just so glad we got a day of true rest and alone time. Good night everyone.

A Piece of My Mind 08.0.2010 Part Deux: BBQ!

2010-08-07T23:30:00.001-07:00

Loteria and Red Stripe!

Sylvia and Stefani...

Jazzmen and my coconut bank full of change for the Loteria pot...
And finally Carlos dancing while BBQing! and the skewers...

A Piece of My Mind 08.0.2010: BBQ!

2010-08-07T16:05:00.001-07:00

We're having a BBQ today just like last weekend. Above are photos from last weekend. I'll post some from this weekend later...

A Piece of My Mind 08.06.2010: My mind had other plans apparently...

2010-08-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

I had planned to get up this morning and have a sweat busting productive work day. My subconscious had other plans apparently. I had some crazy dreams, involving zombies wrapped in aluminum foil with skin that reminded me of baked white fish, and other dreams like going to Disneyland, being a tester on a new ride, for some reason they took down Star Tours (which I hope never happens btw), and it felt like I was flying like Tinkerbell over lands like Neverland, Alice in Wonderland and the Three Caballeros. It was weird, but it was fun, and the lands look like they were all touched with pixie dust. Then the second part of the ride was totally not finished, I flew through a construction site with lots of workers and one of them walked in front of the ride path, farted, and I had to ride through the fart. Lol!

Anyway, it was pretty awesome and weird and I woke up super late (my alarm was still playing "Take on Me" by Aha since 5AM and I had hardly noticed it). I did wake up just in time to get ready and bike ride over to the gym for a noon yoga class. I am so glad I did. Thanks Kimberly for inviting me! It was a great workout riding there, great workout and meditation during yoga, and a nice relaxing and day dreamy ride home. Plus, the perfect weather in beautiful Camarillo just added to it.

So, I'll look to have a super productive week next week, but I guess my mind wanted to rest this week, as well as open up my creativity again, as I hadn't really dreamed in a long time when I was still in my daily corporate setting.

A Piece of My Mind 08.05.2010: Soccer, headaches and happiness

2010-08-05T18:50:00.000-07:00

As stated in my previous entry, the past couple of weeks have been stressful. Not worrisome, just annoying and having to deal with things that we really shouldn't be. But aside from that, we are definitely turning the negative into a positive and becoming a closer family because of it.

CJ had soccer today and he loved it! I sat back, watched the practice, and realized how much I truly love being a mom and being able to stay home at this time in my motherhood to fully experience it. It motivated me so much that I decided I really need to get my work day done early in the morning (and I mean when it's still dark out) so that I can spend more time like this with the kids, and connect with them.

So it's on. Tonight I go to the gym to get my work out in, and tomorrow morning, I will be up bright and early at 5AM to start writing articles and working on artwork. No more excuses. No more snacks (except healthy ones), and many naps when both myself and the kids are pooped out.

Going to go rest my head and get rid of the rest of this stupid and pointless stress headache, then will feel much happier. I want to use every minute of my time to build upon my life and what I want for it and for my family.

A Piece of My Mind 08.04.2010: Crazy = crazy, but inspiration is still on the forefront of my mind.

2010-08-04T16:48:00.000-07:00

The past couple of weeks has been filled with personal drama. It's unfortunate that some people choose to remain in denial and completely live in their own delusions, but I can't change that, and I must remember what is important in my own life and push forward.

Pictured above are 50 little bags with images cut out personally by me, for the next Wine, Women and Wednesdays event. The last event was really eye opening, and further defined what Motivation and Inspiration means. It really helped me put things in perspective. Kimberly Reid is the lady who hosts these, and I'm so glad to be able to contribute to the next event. We will be making Vision Boards, something I'd been meaning to do for about 4 years now. If you are a woman in the Ventura County area, CLICK HERE for the link to the event.

It will be held in Newbury Park, CA on August 18.

Still working on cutting out more images and getting the little promo scrap image baggies ready!

Naomi

A Piece of My Mind 07.22.2010: What a Day!!

2010-07-22T19:48:00.000-07:00

Good day today. Lots of things done, and I worked out early, but by 3PM I was pooped! Took a half hour nap and was renewed. It's amazing what a little cat nap can do. Spent part of my day being happy housewife and the other half being a serious graphic designer. And 100% of my day was spent being mom. That's it, short post today. Still got things to finish up tonight.

A Piece of My Mind 07.21.2010: What a Day!!

2010-07-21T19:13:00.000-07:00

I just discovered how out of shape I am right now. The blessing and curse is that I never look unhealthy even when I am. Because I didn't like the way that felt, I am on a mission. I am pissed! And it's going to be great. I want to be able to outrun a zombie, and look good doing it.

Aside from that, I learned something new in the kitchen today. Apparently hot glass and cold wet potholder do not mix. The glass bakeware I had sweet potatoes baking in completely cracked and broke in my hands. Carlos is the one who gave me the answer to that mystery.

CJ was completely hot and cold today, speaking of hot and cold, but I don't blame him. He had a hard day and was just frustrated with everything. He kept dropping things, tripping over things, and we missed the ice cream truck twice. Poor thing. He had a couple of meltdowns today, which is not like him at all.

I'm glad today is close to being over. I still have so much to do. But it is really nice having Carlos home. Not that I need him here to get work done, and as much as the background noise of videogames can be distracting and sometimes annoying, depending on the game, I just "like having him around, he's a laugh!" (from Shaun of the Dead). Yeah that's right. Two zombie references in one post.

Good night folks.
Naomi

A Piece of My Mind 07.18.2010: Crazy week, over!

2010-07-18T10:43:00.000-07:00

I had a crazy week full of ups and downs and lots of driving! But it was more fun than not. I'm glad it's over and I can focus on being at home. Today's main plan is to clean up the studio. It's kind of in shambles after a craft kamikaze session before the Camarillo Fiesta Days. Carlos can't even work out in there. It's going to be a hot day in there today!

Here are some more photos from the Fiesta Days.

We also took the kiddos to the National History Museum in Los Angeles this past week. I got a lot of inspiration there. I'll post some pics from that trip very soon.

A Piece of My Mind 07.13.2010: Good morning!

2010-07-13T10:29:00.001-07:00

Good morning Beenznrice readers. Working from home again, writing web articles and doing a bit of graphic design. Hopefully I can finish taking pictures of the stuff leftover from the Fiesta Days to put on etsy. I will let you all know once that's done.

A Piece of My Mind 07.10.2010: Fiesta Days-Day 1

2010-07-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

Here was Day 1...Day 2 tomorrow!

<3 Naomi

A Piece of My Mind 07.08.2010: 1 Day Left to work on Fiesta stuff!

2010-07-08T21:03:00.000-07:00

I've been in a mad tizzy working on stuff for the Fiesta Days while still getting used to the rhythm of being at home with the kiddos. It's fun, but it's a little harder to work than thought. The kids are being good, but they still demand quite a bit of attention. I'm catching up on cleaning and laundry. I'll post more pics when I can, hopefully tomorrow morning. If you're able to go to the Fiesta Days on Saturday or Sunday, let me know!

Naomi

A Piece of My Mind: First Day

2010-07-02T15:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my last day at my day job. Above is the pic I posted in my goodbye email. It was harder than I thought it would be, and I'm glad I made it through the day without crying.

Today was the first day of my new life, outside of a corporate environment. It has been a glorious, gorgeous Southern California summer day! Getting caught up on laundry, cleaning, articles and sorting out my thoughts! The kids have been great, even though I made them clean for the majority of the day. Progress on projects-will post pics another day. I'm pooped. :)

A Piece of My Mind Each Day 07.01.10 Mystery Project

2010-07-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

Here's a pic of a new project I started. I'm not going to say what it is. Any guesses?

A Piece of My Mind 06.30.2010: More work on the candles...

2010-06-29T23:31:00.000-07:00

I have glitter everywhere. I even got it on my cat, Mochi. I'm sure she hates me right now. Anyway, here are more pics of progress on my candles.

Here's a larger shrine...not completely sure yet what I'm going to do with it, but most likely it will involve a skeleton...

A Piece of My Mind Each Day 07.23.10 Annual checkup and more sneak peaks

2010-06-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

Had my annual checkup today. Not too many surprises there. A little disappointed, as I thought I had made headway by riding my bike nearly every week at least 3 days out of the week, to and from work. I've been eating pretty well, but I still need to kick it up a notch. So I will! Also, they are going to be doing another test on my heart, as I guess it sounds like there may be something irregular. We'll see. I will keep you all updated with how that goes. At least I haven't gained any weight in 2 years, and I feel much better, and I visually look much healthier. But I have my work cut out for me, as I can't be satisfied with that.

Carlos is the picture of health and lost weight to boot. Not surprised. He is Mr. Fitness. hehehe

An another note, here is another sneak preview at more candles I am working on. The Blue Ringo Starr candle is not for sale, as it's a gift for an awesome friend, and fellow Taurus. Enjoy!

Naomi

A Piece of My Mind Each Day 06.28.10 Reflecting...

2010-06-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

It's getting down to the wire. 3.5 days left working at my current employer. The mix of emotion is getting even more mixed. I have to make sure I write my last email and give my contact information to people I want to stay in touch with (which is easy because of the internet). The vibe here is a little down, a little strange, especially now that people know I am gone as of Friday. Am clearing off my desk today, and cleaning off my computer. I even forgot to bring a lunch. (I think I have some English muffins still left in the fridge.) On to the next stage of life, with it's excitement and uncertainty. But I've been through this before, and I am not half as scared this time around, even in the current economy. It might take a little while to break out of the corporate mindset I've learned here, but I am quite confident that I will do it.

A Piece of My Mind 06-27-10 Candles in progress

2010-06-27T20:51:00.000-07:00

Started my candles. More to show later...

A Piece of My Mind Each Day 06.23.10 Geisha Muerta® Patches

2010-06-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

I found these in a box I carefully packed for our move in February and was sad when I couldn't find it. Last weekend, I was looking for something else, and found them! They are available once again on our etsy store, for anyone who was looking for them. There is the square version with red outline and also the die cut version. Collabo piece with another talented etsyan, lizmiera.

A Piece of My Mind Each Day 06.23.10 Sneak Peak

2010-06-23T08:53:00.001-07:00

Here's a little taste of what I'm working on for my booth at the Camarillo Fiesta Days. Some of these are still works in progress. I'm having a lot of fun! Let me know what you think so far...

A Piece of My Mind Each Day. 06-22-10 Part II: Actual artwork in progress...

2010-06-22T14:25:00.000-07:00

This is still in progress and I have no idea what I'm doing, no plans or anything as far as this piece goes. Here's the previous post on THIS.

A Piece of My Mind Each Day. 06-22-10 A Little Panicky. Just a Bit.

2010-06-22T12:47:00.001-07:00

So there are 2 countdowns going on for me right now. I have a 8 days left here at my current job. I am starting to feel really sad about not seeing all these familiar faces every day. As stated yesterday, it's really setting in now, and every day that it's closer, it sets in even more.

I also have the Camarillo Fiesta Days coming up. I have been working on my stuff for my craft booth, but have not gotten as far as I'd hoped I would. So, it's going to be kamikaze crafting every night until the event. I have really started to like creating little ornaments, for Christmas or otherwise, as they aren't really Christmas-ey. They are perfect if you're like me, and like very random Christmas ornaments on your tree. Hopefully there will be a few of those kinds of people at the fair. I bought 2 mini Christmas trees on ebay this morning, and a friend of ours is going to lend me one of his artificial Christmas trees as well. Hopefully I will make enough of these to fill the trees up and then some!

Also working on more shrines, which I learned how to do on the Crafty Chica Cruise. I think I'm going to make some of them with my Geisha Muerta® artwork as well. We'll see. I had glitter everywhere yesterday, but I think it's a good look for me!

A Piece of My Mind 06-21-10

2010-06-21T10:56:00.000-07:00

Today I am off from work. I only have a week and a half left and then I'll be working from home for a while. The building where I'm working is soon to be shut down and moved to the east coast, so massive layoffs all around. But I'm not too down about it. Here's an article about it HERE.

I'm taking one of the few vacation days I have. It's all starting to settle in my mind that I'm not going to have the same routine I've had for years, any longer, starting July 2. I'm happy about it, nervous, excited, and a little scared. A little sad as well, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't. I am mostly excited at the possibilities of making it from home. I'm in a much better spot now than I was before. Hopefully I won't have to depend on too many months of unemployment this time around.

I'll be working on my crafts for the Camarillo Fiesta Days today, so will post pics later. Was planning on being home alone today to get stuff done, but my son sweet talked me into letting him stay here with me. So he's playing his Wii right now as I'm typing this up. He's already requested grilled cheese sandwiches for lunch, so I'll be busy with that as well in a while...

What are you all busy doing today?

A Piece of My Mind Each Day. 06-15-10: In The Studio

2010-06-16T10:38:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics from working in the studio over the weekend...

Crosses of different kinds...

Working on mini Dia de Los Muertos shrines from pipette boxes they gave me at work...

And of course, my little one wanted to join me in the studio. :)

A Piece of My Mind Each Day. 07-14-10

2010-06-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

Here is a piece from yesterday, ran out of time to post it, but it's here! Not sure where it's going or what or who exactly it's supposed to be. I just opened a blank document in Photoshop and started sketching with the wacom tablet. We'll see how it progress...completely unplanned expression this time. Although, it is interesting to me how many of my doodles end up looking a little like my mom. :)

Naomi

A Piece of My Mind 06.12.2010

2010-06-12T14:09:00.000-07:00

I am busy putting inspiration up in the studio. Found some old life drawings from Foundation Year at Otis, so I had Carlos help me tack them up! We're going to go through his drawings from school soon, too, so it's not just my stuff up. Other inspirational things, illustrations I saved from annuals and magazines, pictures, etc., will be going up soon, too.

More goodness from Crafty Chica®!!

2010-06-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share this with our readers. Kathy Cano-Murillo of Crafty Chica fame posted this up on Facebook this morning. These are some of the most unique craft/art ideas I've seen. It's totally customizable. Make whatever saint or guardian you like, to your needs.

I've had an idea of creating something like this, but more like Japanese dolls, out of polymer clay or some other material. Seeing this today reminded me, and totally inspired me to follow up with my idea. More on that later...

Here's the description on her site:

"Crafty Chica® Decorate Your Own Empowerment Guardian™

Empowerment Guardians are just the beginning of a wonderful creation – the final result is up to you and your powerful imagination. So embellish at will, and think majestic and inspirational thoughts. Paint her, dip her in glitter, decoupage her with fabric or paper, glue on flowers or cover her in crystals. The possibilities are endless!"

A Piece of My Mind Each Day. 06-09-10

2010-06-09T10:33:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share that I won these lovely items on ebay and they will be coming shortly. Wahoo!

A Piece of My Mind Each Day. 06-07-10

2010-06-07T16:25:00.001-07:00

Working on a design...here is progress...any guesses?

A Piece of My Mind Each Day. 06.04.2010

2010-06-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

What's the general consensus on this style? Haven't done anything in a while in this style and am thinking maybe I should create more. Tell me what you think.

Naomi

A Piece of My Mind Each Day apologies

2010-06-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

I really haven't kept up with my daily piece of mind. I've been busy, but do I really have a great excuse. No I don't. And I apologize for that. Here are a couple of quick digi sketches I'm working on, no descriptions, use your imaginations. It's for a secret personal project. :)

Enjoy!
Naomi

Painting in Progress...

2010-05-08T00:27:00.000-07:00

This is the first time I've touched this painting since we moved. I had started it last year before moving, and worked on it tonight. I'm not sure if I like it or not. I'm in a mood to just paint over it and start from scratch again, but I might just need to go to bed, then decide when I wake up tomorrow.

Work created on the Crafty Chica Cruise 2010!

2010-04-21T10:10:00.001-07:00

Here's what I created while on the cruise!

The ATC was from a very talented crafter named Rita!

Crafty Chica Cruise 2010!

2010-04-20T11:32:00.000-07:00

So I made it this year! It was awesome. Check out some photos that I took to inspire me...

More to come in the next post as well as more info...still getting used to being on solid ground...

A Piece of My Mind (way belated) 04-16-10

2010-04-16T15:19:00.000-07:00

Here's a piece I did late last year but never posted. I'm really liking the new technique!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

2010-03-24T10:44:00.001-07:00

a mother, artist, teacher, and writer. now i just need to be more successful at these things!

Ask me anything

Beenznrice Art

New Stuff at the Shop and FREE SHIPPING!

Wordpress Blog

Fernando Vicente Vanitas

Amazing Fairy Doors of Ann Arbor

More Vintage Typography

Vintage Typography

Early Morning Inspiration

Found an Inspiration 2009 Post...

Thought for the day...

Illustration Friday: Dusty

Monday Morning Inspiration

Listening to Music...

Beenznrice work from The Sharpie Show II

The Sharpie Show II TOMORROW!

Illustration Friday Topic: Savor

Sock puppets or paper airplanes?

Favorite Mexican dish? :3

Life Drawing Session 11.11.2010

Progress on my Little Mermaid Shrine.

Camarillo Figure Artists Meetup 11.04.2010

Halloween Pumpkin Painting, Night 1

Illustration Friday Topic: Spent

Illustration Friday Topic: Racing

Illustration Friday Topic: Racing

Papel Geekado Wall Skins!

Little Red Riding Hood by Annie Rodrigue

"Little Red Riding Hood" by Annie Rodrigue

Illustration Friday Topic: Spooky

Studio 6 Grand Opening Show

Blasts from the Past!

If you were given a chance to go on a vacation just you and Carlos and money was not an option, where would you go and what would you do?

Run 6 miles on flat terrain or hike 5 miles uphill on a trail called "The Beast?"

My First Vector Papel Picado Design!

My Inspiration Candle Made it on a Treasury!

Finished some Dia de los Muertos vectors!

Cameo Vector

Working with T-shirt Design Elements

Belectables Tasting Event

Carlos's Saturday Art Nite Sketches

Saturday Art Night Studies

Shout Out to the Crafty Chica

Ipromptu Trip to Burger King

Alyssa's 13th Birthday Cake

Starting on 2 new illustrations...

Scanner is Hooked Up!

20% Off Everything at the Beenznrice Shop until the end of September!

Got my postcards in the mail!

Illustration Friday Topic: Dessert

A Perfect Day in the 805 Today

CLS Photography Holiday Special

Fall & Holiday Portrait Mini-Sessions are Here!

We're offering sessions Saturday, September 18 from 4pm-7pm in Long Beach. Contact us today for more details, and to reserve your session time.

New Postcards coming in a few days!

Just finished another shrine!

Finished My Blue Shrine!

Started painting some more on this piece...

Back to School Supply Shopping!

Lost Chankla!

Working on a Children's Book today...

Carlos has a new blog!

A week HIATUS!!! A Piece of My Mind Today...08.23.10

A Piece of My Mind 08.13.2010 Linocut Fail!

A Piece of My Mind 08.11.2010: Craziness!

Pinkies Up!

A Piece of My Mind 08.10.2010: Well...it's a...swan

A Piece of My Mind 08.09.2010: My work at Studio 6!

Studio 6 Open today!

A Piece of My Mind 08.08.2010: My perfect Sunday...yes I'm thinking of Hot Fuzz

A Piece of My Mind 08.0.2010 Part Deux: BBQ!

A Piece of My Mind 08.0.2010: BBQ!

A Piece of My Mind 08.06.2010: My mind had other plans apparently...

A Piece of My Mind 08.05.2010: Soccer, headaches and happiness

A Piece of My Mind 08.04.2010: Crazy = crazy, but inspiration is still on the forefront of my mind.

A Piece of My Mind 07.22.2010: What a Day!!

A Piece of My Mind 07.21.2010: What a Day!!

A Piece of My Mind 07.18.2010: Crazy week, over!

A Piece of My Mind 07.13.2010: Good morning!

A Piece of My Mind 07.10.2010: Fiesta Days-Day 1

A Piece of My Mind 07.08.2010: 1 Day Left to work on Fiesta stuff!